August 20, 2008

 

Hon. David A. Paterson

Governor

Executive Chamber

State Capitol

Albany, NY  12224

 

Dear Governor Paterson:

 

I am writing on behalf of the Citizens Budget Commission to ask you to approve S8699/A11743—a bill to prevent further abuses of the public school pension system by contract employees and require better reporting on annual compensation within school districts. This bill represents an important step toward curbing high local pension costs.

 

The abuse in the school district pension system that has been uncovered in recent months erodes public faith in government and drives up local expenses. We believe the measures contained in this bill will help to prevent such abuses in the future by clarifying pension eligibility provisions and helping to shine a light on the public payroll in school districts.

 

As you work to combat high local taxes in New York it is important not only to judiciously exercise your veto pen, but to take steps that are affirmative. We request that you affix your signature to this legislation so that it may become law.

 

As always, thank you for considering our views.

 

Sincerely,

 

Carol Kellermann

President